Frequently Asked Questions

At Cape Cod Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine, P.C., we want your experience at our practice to go as smoothly as possible. Below are some common patient questions. As always, if you have a question or concern that wasn’t addressed here, please call us at 508-775-8282. Don't forget to follow us on Facebook for the most up-to-date news, information, happenings, etc! We are easy to find at: https://www.facebook.com/ccortho/

How do I contact Cape Cod Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine?

508-775-8282 is our phone number. No matter which location you are trying to contact, please call this number and our friendly onsite staff center will direct your call.

What are your hours of operation?

Cape Cod Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine, P.C. hours of operation are from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Friday.

Where are you located?

Cape Cod Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine, P.C. has 3 convenient locations on Cape Cod. Our main offices are on 130 North Street in beautiful Hyannis, MA, and 18 Route 6A, Bldg 2 in Sandwich. We also have a satellite office at Fontaine Medical Center in Harwich, Massachusetts.

What services are offered at each location?

Cape Cod Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine, P.C. offers patients a full range of services at their locations. These services include clinic, physical therapy, imaging (X-ray), and Occupational medicine and DME services.

Do I need a referral to see a physician?

The answer to this question depends on your individual insurance policy. Some insurance policies require a referral from a primary care physician in order to see an orthopaedic specialist. Consult your insurance policy information to determine if you are required to have a referral or call our office and ask to speak to the Patient Accounts Department.

What medical reports should I bring?

Please bring the following to your appointment: all relevant X-rays, CT scans, and MRI reports. You will also need a list of all medications, supplements, or vitamins you are taking; a list of known allergies, your insurance card and copay. For a workers’ compensation visit, please bring your insurance carrier’s name and address, the date of your injury, your employer’s name and address and your workers’ compensation number.

Is it possible for me to see one doctor for my multiple orthopaedic ailments?

When calling, be sure to tell us what hurts. Due to the extensive subspecialty training our physicians have received, different conditions may be best treated by different physicians. This will be decided after an evaluation.

How early should I arrive for my appointment?

15 to 20 minutes is usual. However, if you are a new patient, you will need to allow 20 – 30 minutes for filling out forms.

What should I do if I have an emergency?

Please call 911 for serious emergencies. If you are in need of immediate orthopaedic assistance, please contact our office at 508-775-8282 as early as possible so that we can accommodate you.

What are the most common injuries?

The most common orthopaedic injuries are sprains and strains, knee injuries, swollen muscles, shin pain, fractures, and dislocations.

How can I prevent getting injured?

Injuries can happen to anyone at any time. Even those in great shape can become injured. Exercising is good prevention, but even that can lead to injury. Poor training, improper gear when playing sports, being out of shape and inadequate warming up or stretching can lead to injuries.

If I see an orthopaedic surgeon, will he or she generally recommend surgery?

Most orthopaedic injuries and conditions are treated without surgery, using a range of treatments that include activity modification, physical therapy, and medications. Surgery is an option for certain orthopaedic problems and often for those conditions that do not alleviate patients’ symptoms.

What are the most common orthopaedic surgeries?

The most common orthopaedic surgeries are:

arthroscopic knee surgery

Shoulder

Elbow

Wrist

Hip

Ankle

Joint replacement surgery

Soft tissue injury repair

What are some risks associated with surgery?

As with any surgery, risks include bleeding, infection, stiffness, and nerve damage. Ask your surgeon what the risks are for your particular procedure.

What can happen if I avoid surgery?

Some complications that can come from avoiding needed surgery are pain, loss of motion, weakness, numbness, and an early onset of arthritis.

Will I need physical therapy?

This depends on the type of procedure that was performed. Physical therapy can help many people regain motion and strength in their joints. Therapy can last from 2 – 6 months.

When can I return to daily activities?

This depends on the type of procedure done and can be anywhere from a few days to a few months. A full return to all activities, sports, and exercise can take from 4 to 6 months. Your physician will advise you on your individual progress.